标签： Dominica

A resident of Massacre, Canefield, is currently receiving medical treatment at the Dominica-China Friendship Hospital (DCFH) after being involved in a violent shooting incident in Mahaut on Tuesday. According to police reports, the victim sustained a head injury, was robbed of his cash, and was shot in his right leg. Authorities have launched a thorough investigation into the matter, though further details remain undisclosed at this time. The incident has raised concerns about public safety in the area, prompting calls for increased vigilance and law enforcement presence. The victim’s condition is reported to be stable, but the community remains on edge as the investigation unfolds.

In a significant stride toward climate resilience, the Government of Dominica has surpassed the halfway mark in its ambitious initiative to deliver 5,000 hurricane-resilient homes to its citizens. Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Melissa Poponne-Skerrit, announced this milestone during her recent appearance on DBS Radio’s ‘Focus on Government and Development.’ She emphasized that this housing initiative is a pivotal intervention in lifting citizens out of poverty, restoring pride, and providing hope and security in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria’s devastation. Currently, over 28,000 Dominicans are residing in these safer, more durable homes, marking a tangible step toward the nation’s goal of becoming the world’s first climate-resilient country. The government’s efforts are particularly concentrated in the Grand Bay area, where a modern, resilient village is under construction. This project includes 91 homes, 26 commercial spaces, a community center, a church, new roads, and infrastructure. Additionally, residential lots and facilities for the magistrate’s court and fire station are being developed. Beyond Grand Bay, similar projects are nearing completion in areas like Vieille Case, Penville, and Pointe Michel, with all expected to be finalized by year-end. The Housing Recovery Program has also made significant strides in the Kalinago Territory, where over a quarter of the total homes were constructed. Notably, the government intervened to resolve land ownership issues for over 170 applicants, ensuring their eligibility for the program. While the Housing Recovery Program officially concluded this year, the Ministry of Housing continues to hand over homes, bringing comfort and security to more Dominican families.

The Dominica Bar Association has raised significant concerns regarding the recent initiative by the Ministry of Legal Affairs to extend court hours at the Magistrates’ Court. The new schedule, which introduces evening sittings from 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM starting September 8, 2025, aims to improve access to justice and reduce case backlogs. While the Association acknowledges these objectives as commendable, it has highlighted several potential challenges that could undermine the initiative’s effectiveness.

Senator Oscar George, Minister of State in the Ministry of Culture, Youth, Sports, and Community Development, has called on young Dominicans to actively engage in agriculture to secure the nation’s food sustainability and health. Speaking at the Market Day with a Difference event in Mahaut, George emphasized the critical role of youth in preserving the agricultural legacy and ensuring food security. He urged a shift in mindset, moving away from viewing farming as a mere hobby to recognizing it as a vital profession. George highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting farmers and vendors, particularly in the Mahaut region, as essential contributors to the nation’s well-being. He stressed the importance of consuming locally produced, nutrient-rich foods over processed alternatives, linking dietary choices to public health outcomes. George concluded by advocating for a return to traditional, homegrown produce as the foundation for building a healthier, more resilient nation.

In celebration of the 50th reunion of the St. Mary’s Academy (SMA) Class of 1974/75, the organizing committee has collaborated with the University of the West Indies (UWI) Global Campus in Dominica to organize a national educational forum. The event, titled ‘The Future of Education in Dominica: Our Response to the Changing Local, Regional, and Global Realities,’ is set to take place on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at 6:30 PM at the UWI Global Campus. This initiative aims to spark a meaningful dialogue among prominent educators and thought leaders in Dominica. Key participants include Dr. Francis Severin, Pro Vice-Chancellor of UWI Global Campus; Dr. Swinburne Augustine, an academic consultant; Dr. Rosalind LaRocque, an education specialist; Dr. Edmund Tavernier, an education administrator; Mr. Michel Williams, a businessman and former banker; and Mr. Michael Augustine, who will moderate the discussion. The forum will address critical topics such as curriculum reform, bridging the digital divide, improving teacher training, and preparing students for a rapidly evolving global economy. Alvin Thomas, Chair of the SMA Reunion Committee, emphasized that the event transcends classroom boundaries, focusing on creating an education system that empowers youth and strengthens the nation. The forum is free and open to the public. This event is part of a week-long series of activities from October 11 to October 19, commemorating SMA’s 50 years of dedication to discipline, leadership, and service. Proceeds from the reunion will support the restoration of the Egbert Germain Wing at SMA. Other highlights include a school assembly, the donation of sports equipment to SMA students, and an entertainment night featuring Reggae, Cadence-Lypso, and Bouyon music on October 16 at Paradise Pier. The week will conclude with the SMA Old Boys Concert on October 17 at St. Gerard’s Hall, featuring performances by renowned Dominican alumni.